CONFIDENTIAL
SECTION 1
13
GENERAL
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
The imposition of a curfew affecting the Port would necessarily result in a diminution or cessation of lighterage work and hence a high percentage of port operations. In view of the large amount of cargo handled on the public waterfronts, adequate warning of the imposition of a curfew is very important.
2.
The Marine Department is in control of all public cargo working areas and most areas of waterfront used for cargo handling by local and PRC vessels. Most of these areas are easily controlled or closed down, but some are public waterfronts which would be less easy to control.
3.
To assist in the maintenance of port operations, the value of obtaining and disseminating accurate information without delay cannot be
over-estimated.
There is no doubt also that a strong Police presence has a stabilizing effect on a situation which might easily degenerate into disturbances not unmotivated by the presence of loot.
Ą.
EFFECT OF A CURFEW ON CARGO MOVEMENTS
5.
The Government will try to confine any curfews imposed to the smallest possible area. it will generally be possible for many of the operations of the Port to go on uneffected.
6.
Thus,
However, in the event of a widespread curfew, much of the discharging and loading of ships would probably have to cease. The stevedoring companies would be responsible for the collection of stevedores from ships at buoys.
7.
As far as possible cargo lighters would go into typhoon shelters, or other cargo-working areas, as required by the Director of Marine.
CONFIDENTIAL